General Robert Edward Lee. (1807 - 1870) Robert E. Lee is one of the most respected figures to ever walk the stage of human history. He was loved by his soldiers, revered by his peers, respected by his enemies, and even his former slaves and servants cherished the time they were given to be with him. At the outbreak of the Civil War, Robert E. Lee was so respected that President Abraham Lincoln offered him the position of Commander of the Union Forces.